"Aaron has been a massive influence in our success to date. His rugby knowledge, attitude and ability to direct a game is impressive. He is greatly respected, a natural leader and will thrive with this added responsibility."

The former New Zealand under-20 captain has been the Chiefs' Player of the Year for the past two seasons.

Messam is the most-capped Chiefs player with 113 matches and has barely missed a minute of play in their two title runs.

"He is an uncompromising player and a leader who epitomises Chiefs mana," Rennie said.

The Chiefs play their first pre-season match against the Queensland Reds in Toowoomba on Saturday.